When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Gramercy Kitchen
Why Gramercy Kitchen is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Gramercy Kitchen offers a contemporary diner experience right in the Gramercy Park neighborhood of New York City, making it a great spot to meet up with friends for any meal of the day. The restaurant blends classic American diner roots with modern touches, featuring an inviting atmosphere highlighted by exposed brick walls and Edison bulb lighting that creates a warm and stylish setting. Its extensive menu covers a wide range of options from breakfast classics and sandwiches to fresh salads and hand-selected seafood, providing something for everyone. This versatility allows groups to enjoy a relaxed brunch, casual lunch, or a satisfying dinner together. Brunch is a particular highlight, served daily from 7:30am to 4:00pm, and is known for popular items like breakfast tacos and mimosas, ensuring a lively and enjoyable gathering. The restaurant also offers online ordering and delivery for those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home, further adding to its convenience. With fair pricing and a commitment to quality ingredients, Gramercy Kitchen maintains a solid reputation as a dependable and pleasant dining destination within the city.
Here's what people think of Gramercy Kitchen
As of recent, Gramercy Kitchen holds a 4.3-star rating based on 819 reviews.
User reviews of Gramercy Kitchen reflect generally positive experiences with some varied opinions. Many reviewers praised the restaurant for its good service and friendly staff, who work hard to provide a satisfying visit. The venue's modern diner ambiance with cozy lighting and exposed brick was often highlighted as a pleasing backdrop for meals. Positive feedback commonly mentioned the wide-ranging menu and solid quality of the food, particularly enjoying the breakfast and brunch selections like pancakes and breakfast tacos, which made for a satisfying start to the day. On the other hand, some negative reviews pointed out issues such as certain dishes not meeting expectations in terms of taste or quality—for example, a burger described as overcooked and some food items considered overpriced or lacking flavor. A few diners found the menu items to be average rather than exceptional, reflecting a mixed impression of originality and taste. Despite these criticisms, the general consensus remains that Gramercy Kitchen is a reliable spot for a casual meal with friends, offering an agreeable atmosphere and a menu that caters well to diverse preferences. Overall, reviews indicate that while it may not be the most memorable dining experience in New York City, it consistently delivers good service and decent food for its price point, making it a worthy choice for social gatherings and everyday dining.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Eneri Venegas
Gramercy Kitchen is a contemporary diner situated at the southwest corner of 17th Street. The staff provided exceptional service, and despite the establishment being quite busy, our order was prepared in a timely manner. The waitstaff demonstrated a high level of attentiveness to all guests. We were seated under a glass ceiling, which posed some discomfort due to direct sunlight, making visibility a challenge. We ordered a spinach and feta omelette, which was accompanied by home fries, an egg platter, and French toast. While the French toast, which has received much acclaim, did not meet our expectations and was somewhat soggy, the other dishes were thoroughly enjoyable. The pricing for three meals was very reasonable. We look forward to returning to this diner in the future and would highly recommend it to others.
Sophia Jaeger
I was there for dinner on a Monday night and it wasn’t crowded. I tried coming here for brunch on a Saturday once and the line was somewhat long, so our group decided to pivot. Glad I came back! Staff was so friendly and welcoming, and the food was delicious—a lot of food for a reasonable price ($20 before tax and tip). I got the Tex Mex chicken sandwich and the only problem was fitting it in my mouth because it was so tall!! I’ll be back for sure.
Jeffrey D. Gershman
I took a group of 25 to Gramercy Kitchen and the staff could not have been more wonderful and accommodating. Excellent food, outstanding service, and the mimosa tower might be the best bargain in town. If you’re looking for a terrific place for brunch—especially with larger groups—you can stop scrolling because you’ve found your place. Cannot recommend this restaurant more strongly!
Lisa Romano
First timer! I had an Italy Wrap #7. Prepared exactly as listed on the menu. Busy even at 3pm. Our server was excellent, very attentive. The French Onion Soup was not overly salty. The waffle and sweet potato fries were not greasy. Items were decently priced. On Sunday, they have a brunch menu. However, you can order whatever you want on the menu. Definitely will be back.
Jonathan Miller
We stumbled upon this charming spot while exploring downtown New York, and it was such a great find! The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making our brunch experience even better. I had an awesome omelette that was perfectly cooked, and the cappuccino was absolutely amazing. This place has a welcoming vibe and delicious food, definitely worth a visit!
How to reach Gramercy Kitchen
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Why Gramercy Kitchen may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Gramercy Kitchen with your friends?
When looking for a place to gather with friends or family, Gramercy Kitchen offers an inviting atmosphere that feels like a peaceful village tucked away in the busy city. The restaurant’s modern and chic design, with large glass facades letting in ample natural light, light blue hues, beige wood tables, and blue leather sofas, creates a calming yet stylish environment perfect for socializing. From the moment you enter, you are enveloped in fresh vibes and a positive ambiance that makes you want to linger and enjoy the company of those around you. Whether it’s a morning meetup or a lunch gathering, the light-filled space and pleasant decor promote a sense of happiness and relaxation among guests. While the food receives mixed reviews, the combination of a bright, fresh atmosphere and respectable service ensures that your friends will feel comfortable and welcomed during your meetup. This balance of ambiance and the chance to enjoy a relaxed yet vibrant setting is why Gramercy Kitchen stands out as an excellent place to rally your group for meaningful conversations and bonding over shared meals.
What activities and experiences can you enjoy at Gramercy Kitchen?
Gramercy Kitchen primarily focuses on dining experiences, offering a solid and varied menu suited to different tastes and meal times, from breakfast to lunch. It is particularly known for its brunch offerings, which are perfect for groups looking to start their day with something satisfying and casual. The menu includes omelets with gluten-free options, pancakes, eggs benedict, hearty sandwiches, and even comforting chicken soup, appealing to diverse culinary preferences. Guests can enjoy classic breakfast items like sunny-side-up eggs served creatively on avocado or indulge in dishes featuring smoked salmon and English muffins. While some dishes, such as pancakes, have been criticized for lacking flavor or undercooked textures, others like the eggs benedict receive praise for quality and taste, providing options that can impress your group. The kitchen’s ability to cater to special dietary needs, like gluten-free meals, makes it inclusive for all types of guests. Beyond the food, the restaurant’s ambiance—with its combination of natural light and comfortable seating—creates an ideal setting for leisurely meals and extended conversations, encouraging guests to spend quality time together without feeling rushed.
Why is Gramercy Kitchen perfect for group meetups?
Gramercy Kitchen’s design and layout are tailored to accommodate social groups comfortably, enhancing its appeal as a meetup spot. The spacious interior, light-filled environment, and tasteful decor contribute to a welcoming atmosphere where groups can easily gather around tables suited for conversation and connection. The mixture of cozy leather sofas and sturdy wooden tables means your party can choose seating arrangements that best suit the occasion, whether a casual catch-up or a celebratory brunch. The restaurant’s location in the Gramercy neighborhood, known for its charm and accessibility, adds convenience for city dwellers and visitors alike, making it easy for your group to convene without hassle. Furthermore, the staff’s reputation for good service helps ensure a smooth dining experience, which is especially important for groups to avoid delays or confusion during their visit. Despite some variability in food quality, the effort to please guests is apparent, and the diverse menu offerings mean there is something for everyone, preventing the challenges that sometimes arise when catering to multiple tastes. Overall, Gramercy Kitchen balances ambiance, location, and service to set the stage for memorable group gatherings.
What makes Gramercy Kitchen’s food offerings suitable for diverse tastes?
One of Gramercy Kitchen’s strong points is its varied menu that accommodates a broad range of flavors and dietary preferences, making it easier for groups with different tastes to find something enjoyable. Breakfast and brunch staples like eggs benedict with smoked salmon, various omelet choices including Greek and smoked salmon versions, and gluten-free toast substitutions demonstrate attention to inclusivity and diversity in the kitchen. For those who prefer lighter options, dishes like yogurt topped with fresh strawberries and blueberries and a drizzle of honey offer a refreshing choice. The presence of hearty fare such as chicken soup also ensures that diners seeking comfort food won’t be disappointed. Although some reviewers have noted inconsistencies in the preparation and seasoning of some dishes—pancakes in particular have been described as dull and undercooked—the overall menu diversity allows groups to explore multiple options without feeling restricted. This variety is critical when hosting meetups since it means your friends or family members with different dietary requirements or food preferences can be accommodated with ease, fostering a more inclusive and enjoyable experience for all.
How does the ambiance at Gramercy Kitchen enhance social gatherings?
Ambiance plays a pivotal role in shaping memorable social experiences, and Gramercy Kitchen excels in this aspect with its bright, airy design and tasteful interior finishes. The expansive glass walls bathe the space in natural light, which combined with light blue tones and beige wood accents, creates a soothing and cheerful environment. Guests often describe the feeling inside as reminiscent of a countryside village brought into the heart of New York City, lending a unique charm uncommon in urban restaurants. This atmosphere naturally promotes a positive mood, making it easier for groups to relax and engage with one another. The seating options, varying from plush leather sofas to wooden tables, accommodate both intimate conversations and larger group interactions effectively. Coupled with a well-maintained space that is clean and uncluttered, the ambiance of Gramercy Kitchen encourages guests to stay longer and enjoy extended visits, perfect for leisurely brunches or afternoon meetups. This positive environment underscores why many choose the location as a friendly gathering spot where the surroundings contribute as much to the experience as the food itself.
What should groups expect regarding service and pricing at Gramercy Kitchen?
Groups visiting Gramercy Kitchen can generally expect competent, friendly service that aims to accommodate and please diners. Reviews highlight the hard-working nature of the staff and their efforts to deliver good customer experiences, which is important in ensuring any social meetup runs smoothly. The team is attentive and professional, helping with special requests such as gluten-free meal substitutions, which adds value for guests with specific needs. Pricing at Gramercy Kitchen is typical for New York City, with meals averaging around $20 per person for breakfast or brunch items. This places the restaurant in the mid-range pricing category, offering reasonable portions and a menu that provides fair value for the central location and quality of ambiance. While some customers find the food prices slightly high for the taste quality, many acknowledge that such costs are standard in a prime city neighborhood and balanced by the soothing dining environment and service standards. Groups should plan for moderate spending but can look forward to a convenient and well-serviced dining experience that supports various group sizes and occasions.
What are some tips for making the most of your group visit to Gramercy Kitchen?
To fully enjoy your meetup at Gramercy Kitchen, consider visiting during off-peak hours or making reservations if possible, as it can get busy especially during weekends or brunch hours. Start your visit by soaking in the ambiance—the natural lighting and comfortable seating are a core part of the experience. Since the menu has some variability in dish popularity and execution, it’s wise for groups to share multiple dishes to accommodate preferences and discover which ones are most enjoyable together. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for gluten-free options or other dietary accommodations to ensure everyone’s needs are met seamlessly. You might want to prioritize standout dishes like the eggs benedict or chicken soup, which have received positive feedback, while treating experimental pancakes or similar items with caution. Allow yourself and your friends ample time to relax and chat, as the space encourages lingering over meals. By planning accordingly, your group can take advantage of Gramercy Kitchen’s strengths—a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu—to make your gathering relaxed and memorable.